Mayo councillor hailed for role in dramatic rescue

Members of Castlebar Municipal District have heaped praise on everyone involved in the rescue of a group of 20 rowers who were in a boat that capsized on Lough Lannagh recently.

The dramatic incident occurred on Saturday, February 20, when the popular Dragon Boat was suddenly upended and its crew were hurled into the freezing waters. 

The outcome of this unfortunate event was happily a positive one, with all on board ultimately reaching the safety of the shore. Some were treated at the nearby Mayo University Hospital as a precaution.

Speaking at last week's meeting of the municipal council, Independent Cllr Michael Kilcoyne praised his colleague Cllr Blackie Gavin and members of the Castlebar Community Clean-up Group who had gone to the aid of the stranded crew. 

Cllr Cyril Burke also complimented Cllr Gavin for getting "into the lake to help those people get out”, adding: “It was a frightening experience I am sure."

Head of municipal district David Mellett also acknowledged Cllr Gavin's role in the dramatic event.

“Clearly you are a very strong swimmer but still, it is a big risk for anyone jumping into cold waters like that and it was clearly a case of the right man in the right spot.” 

Cathaoirleach Cllr Donna Sheridan told Cllr Gavin: “Between your emergency fire experience and your swimming skills you really did an amazing job and we are so thankful to you."

The Cathaoirleach’s words were welcomed by members around the table as a spontaneous round of applause rang out for Cllr Gavin.

Thanking his colleagues, Cllr Gavin said he did not act on his own and he also praised the people who had been in the boat.

“They were calm and strong. Everyone thought was a deliberate exercise they were doing.” 

Cllr Gavin told members that consideration must now be given to putting in place at Lough Lannagh access for emergency vehicles.

“When the emergency services did arrive they were all the way over at the carpark, which is too far away. We need direct access for such vehicles because of the amount of people using the lake. Every Saturday morning there can also be up to 200 people on the park run there and then some go for a swim. It is only when an incident like this happens you realise the need.” 

Cllr Harry Barrett supported the call, saying it was clear there was a need for a critical incident plan.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne requested that management prepare a report looking at options for making the area more accessible to emergency services, “because there could be a real accident there.”